Diabetes
Currently more than 17 million Americans, and many more people the world over have diabetes.
Untreated diabetes can cause serious health problems, such as blindness, heart and blood vessel damage, and permanent nerve damage.
It is estimated that around 5.9 million Americans don't know they have diabetes, because they don't show any symptoms.
What is Diabetes?
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Diabetes mellitus is a common disease in which blood glucose levels are above normal.
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There are 3 types of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes, or insulin dependent diabetes occurs when the pancreas no longer produces insulin. Type 2 Diabetes is by far the most common form of diabetes, and occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or when the body does not effectively use the insulin that is produced. Type 2 Diabetes accounts for about 90% of people with diabetes. Gestational Diabetes is a temporary condition can occur during pregnancy. It affects approximately 3.5% of all pregnancies and involves an increased risk of developing diabetes for both mother and child.
Poeple with diabetes normally show some of the following symptoms:
Unusual thirst Frequent urination Weight change (gain or loss) Extreme fatigue or lack of energy Blurred vision Frequent or recurring infections Cuts and bruises that are slow to heal
It is important to realise however that many people don't show any symptoms at all, you should allways consult your doctor.